Mr Gove faced a furious backlash on social media after suggesting that being interviewed by BBC Radio 4 presenter John Humphrys was like 'going into Harvey Weinstein's bedroom'.

In a tweet he said: "Apologies for my clumsy attempt at humour on R4 Today this morning -it wasn't appropriate. I'm sorry and apologise unreservedly.",

Mr Gove was being interviewed by Mr Humphrys in front of a live audience for the 60th anniversary edition of Radio 4's flagship Today programme.

Asked what it was like appearing on the programme, Mr Gove replied: "Sometimes I think going into the studio with you John is a bit like going into Harvey Weinstein's bedroom. You just pray you emerge with your dignity intact."

Former Labour leader Lord Kinnock, who was being interviewed alongside him, joined in, saying: "John goes way past groping. Way past groping."

Their comments were greeted with laughter and some clapping from some members of the audience in London's Wigmore Hall.

Listeners took to Twitter to condemn Mr Gove for his remark, including Labour MP Jess Phillips, who wrote: "Michael Gove just left the studio without his dignity."